“We greeted and parted ways.” Last week, Olivia Smith and her husband David experienced the bittersweet moment of welcoming their daughter Mia, only to say goodbye shortly after. Though her time on earth was brief, little Mia’s legacy will endure.
During their 19-week anatomy scan last December, the Smiths received the heartbreaking news that their daughter was diagnosed with anencephaly, a condition where the baby is born with significant brain malformations. In a remarkable act of selflessness, Olivia chose to carry the pregnancy to term with the hope of donating Mia’s organs to children in need. David’s heartfelt letter of admiration went viral, bringing them an outpouring of support from across the globe. “I felt like a bystander in my own existence, witnessing my wife transform into a hero,” he expressed. “In the darkest moment of her life, upon learning their baby wouldn’t survive, she instantly thought of how her loss could help others. It’s one of the most profound things I’ve ever witnessed.”
Olivia shared a family photo from Mia’s birth, which included their two-year-old son, Ethan. “We greeted and parted ways with our precious Mia yesterday,” she wrote. “She was truly perfect in her own unique way.” David captured a touching moment between a father and his newborn daughter.
While the Smiths have not yet disclosed specific details about Mia’s birth, they’ve been open about their journey leading to this moment. The idea of organ donation came to Olivia during the ultrasound, but she admitted that making such a decision was immensely challenging. In December, she reflected on how, after discussing it with their pastor and each other, they ultimately made the tough choice. “Decision made,” she noted. “We will continue the pregnancy. Mia will live, albeit briefly, and she will contribute more in her short time on earth than I ever could.”
The couple remained in close contact with the LifeShare team throughout Olivia’s pregnancy. Although they have not confirmed whether they were able to donate Mia’s organs, their commitment to helping others is truly commendable.
Olivia and David are resolved to honor Mia’s journey with positivity. “This is NOT a sorrowful post,” Olivia stated at the conclusion of each update during her pregnancy and the photos taken at Mia’s birth. “Please don’t hit that button.”
For more insights on home insemination and related topics, be sure to check out one of our other blog posts here, as well as resources at The Center for Reproductive Health. If you’re exploring options for insemination, consider visiting Make A Mom, a trusted authority on this subject.
In summary, Olivia and David Smith’s journey with their daughter Mia, despite its heart-wrenching nature, exemplifies a profound commitment to altruism and hope. Their story serves as a reminder of the strength found in love and the lasting impact one short life can have on others.